Last month, we talked about the unfortunate increase in crime during the holiday season and gave a few tips for business and home security during Thanksgiving. As we head into Christmas, those home security tips deserve some special attention. Many people travel for Christmas, often for a week or more, which is a particularly vulnerable situation for your home’s security.
At Security Gate & Access, LLC, we’d like to wish you a safe and merry Christmas, whether you’ll be enjoying it here in the Seattle area or traveling to visit friends and family. Let’s take a closer look at protecting your house during travel and the benefits of a home security system.
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Home Security Tips for Holiday Travel
When you’re away from home, is when your house and belongings are most in danger. Criminals are more likely to attempt a break-in at an empty house and more likely to get away with it. They specifically look for homes that look empty, which is one of the reasons crime spikes during the holidays–more homes are vacant as people travel.
It’s well worth the time and effort to take extra precautions for your home security when traveling, especially if you live in the Tacoma area where property crime is especially common. Fortunately, there are simple, effective ways to boost your security.
How to Make it Look Like You’re Still Home
The more lived-in and occupied you can make your house look, the less of a target it will be. Signs of life like lights in the windows and movement are effective deterrents to intruders. If you’ll be traveling for Christmas, ask a neighbor or friend to watch your home. Here’s what you and they can do to keep your house safe, even if they only stop by a few times.
- Have the lights turned on regularly. If you have smart lights, you can easily schedule them to turn on and off periodically. If you don’t, ask your friend to do it.
- Bring in mail and packages. Have your friend bring in deliveries so they don’t pile up, or have everything shipped to a pickup location while you’re away.
- Adjust the blinds regularly. Your blinds and curtains serve as an indicator of life in the house, just like the lights. Ask your friend to open and close them regularly.
- Have a car in the driveway. If you have to take your only car, consider asking a friend if they’ll park one of their cars at your house.
Why Invest in a Home Security System
These small actions can make a big difference, keeping your home from looking like an easy target to thieves. But of course, these are just ways to make your home look protected. The best safety and peace of mind come from genuine protection, whether you’re home or away. That’s what a home security system offers.
A home security system, whether it’s comprised of security cameras, alarm systems, gates, or a combination of these, doesn’t just make a criminal think twice–it helps inhibit them even if they do try to break in.
Is a Home Security System Worth It?
The simple answer is yes, it almost always is. Security measures like cameras and alarms are proven to deter criminals. In fact, a survey of convicted burglars found that 60% of them would immediately dismiss a target that had a security system, and more than three-quarters of them said they would leave if they discovered a security system while attempting a crime.
So if you want the best protection for your home, you need some sort of home security system. For some properties, perimeter security with an electric fence is also effective.
Merry Christmas from SGA, and Stay Safe!
The holidays are a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy the festivities, not a time to worry about burglary or dealing with the aftermath of a property crime. Security Gate & Access is dedicated to providing protection and peace of mind for businesses and homeowners all year round.
If you’re ready to invest in your home security this holiday season, just give us a call. Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
